Abstract: A sand bag shovel having an elongated rod connected to a connecting member and the connecting member attached to a scoop. The scoop has a pair of sidewalls and a front wall with tapered panels that form a peak. A funnel is used with the scoop that has a flange that extends outwardly from a top opening.

Abstract: The invention relates to a blade tip and to a tool combination having a blade tip for an agricultural soil cultivation machine, wherein the blade tip has a base part which has a cutter and a cutter carrier, and a guiding element attached to the blade tip, wherein the blade tip has a screw receptacle for fastening to a tine of the agricultural soil cultivation machine. Here, provision is made for the base part to have a receptacle which is covered by means of a covering portion in the tool feeding direction, for the guiding element to have a plug attachment which is held in the receptacle, and for a form-fitting connection, which prevents any movement of the guiding element out of the receptacle, to act in the region of the receptacle between the blade tip and the guide element.

Abstract: A tractor control system, which controls an operating condition of an implement attached to the tractor. The control system includes a sensing means providing a force signal which indicates the pull force necessary to pull an implement in a desired position; a control which receives the force signal; and means for measuring at least one parameter associated with the tractor mode and/or the implement mode and the implement position is adjusted to a new position when the force signal varies. The control system includes pre-determined values associated with certain tractor and/or implement modes. A measured parameter is compared with a pre-determined parameter value and if the measured parameter would result in an undesired movement of the implement, the force signal is deactivated, or the response to the force signal is deactivated to prevent undesired movement of the attachment.

Abstract: An agricultural machine arrangement including at least one traction machine and at least one attachment device adapted to the traction machine, with a driver assistance system optimizing the operation of the traction machine and/or of the respective attachment device. The driver assistance system includes a computing unit and at least one display unit, wherein the computing unit processes information generated by machine-internal sensor systems, external information and information stored in the computing unit and wherein the traction machine and the attachment device include a control device for open-loop and closed-loop controlling the traction machine and/or of the attachment device.

Abstract: An agricultural machine arrangement includes at least one traction machine and at least one attachment device adapted to the traction machine with a driver assistance system optimizing the operation of the traction machine and/or of the respective attachment device. The drive assistance system includes a computing unit and at least one display unit, wherein the computing unit processes information generated by machine-internal sensor systems, external information and information storable in the computing unit. The driver assistance system is structured so that it forms an automatic traction machine adjusting unit and/or an automatic attachment device adjusting unit, wherein the respective automatic adjusting units independently of one another or as a function of one another bring about an “optimization” of the mode of operation of the traction machine and/or of the at least one attachment device.

Abstract: A hydraulic system for a farm implement having wings is provided. The hydraulic system includes a wing elevation circuit operable to lower or raise the wings of the farm implement and a wing folding circuit operable to fold or unfold the wings of the farm implement. The wing elevation circuit is operable to raise or lower the wings of the farm implement. The hydraulic system further includes a hydraulic valve block assembly in communication with the wing elevation circuit and the wing folding circuit, in which the hydraulic valve block assembly is operable to control a flow of a hydraulic fluid in the wing elevation circuit and in the wing folding circuit.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of priming dry seeds, wherein said seeds firstly wetted in a manner such that the seed absorbs at least 75 wt. % of the amount of water required by the seed for entering phase II of water uptake. Subsequently, the moisture content of the seed is reduced by at least 1 percentage unit, and in manner such that the resulting moisture content of the seed still is at least 25%. At last is the seed incubated in such a manner that: the weight of the seed during the incubation remains at least 80%, such as at least 90% or at least 95%, of the weight of the seed before the incubation; and the moisture content (dry weight based) of the seed during the incubation remains at least 25% during at least 25% of incubation time.

Abstract: An automated farming system includes a frame. The frame includes a fixed base, a beam, and a support. A farming implement support extends from the beam and moves up and down in relation to the beam. The farming implement support moves along a length of the beam. The movable support includes a propulsion system and is configured to rotate around the fixed base. Movement of the farming implement support and the movable support allows for high density planting of crops in hexagonal patterns and/or a continuous spiral pattern.

Abstract: An automated farming system includes a frame. The frame includes a fixed base, a beam, and a support. A farming implement support extends from the beam and moves up and down in relation to the beam. The farming implement support moves along a length of the beam. The movable support includes a propulsion system and is configured to rotate around the fixed base. Movement of the farming implement support and the movable support allows for high density planting of crops in hexagonal patterns and/or a continuous spiral pattern.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for controlling automated devices. The method comprises locating at least one automated device on an area being controlled and placing an observation device, before the automated device starts operation, over the area being controlled on a flying device or tower, said observation device being capable of receiving and transmitting a control signal to the automated device and determining the coordinates of the flying device, whereupon said observation device controls at least said one automated device. The invention simplifies control of the automated device and improves the accuracy with which its coordinates are determined.

Abstract: A rectangular blade of a string trimmer is provided. The rectangular blade includes two straight cutting edges, each straight cutting edge including a plurality of cuts which can be either V-shaped or U-shaped. In other embodiments, the blade has a shape different from the rectangle.

Abstract: A harvester has a main frame defining a front and a rear, and an inlet for receiving first portions of a crop. The inlet is disposed proximate the front of the main frame. The harvester also includes a separator for processing the first portions, at least one outlet downstream of the separator for ejecting the processed first portions, a boom extending proximate the front of the main frame for reaching un-processed crop, and a topper coupled to the boom for cutting second portions of the crop. The topper includes a cutter for cutting the second portions, a conveyor for receiving the second portions from the cutter, and an outlet disposed proximate the conveyor. The conveyor is configured to transport the second portions towards the outlet for ejecting the second portions towards the field.

Abstract: An apparatus for automating the process of bunching straw in a farming operation is disclosed. The straw buncher is a towable implement that includes one or more rakes mounted on a rotatable axle. The rakes gather straw. Rotation of the rake assembly is prevented by a stop mechanism that holds a rake in position using a resistive force until sufficient straw has gathered in front of the rake and the drag created by the straw overcomes the resistive force. At this point the rake begins to rotate, a cam on the rake assembly engages a drive system that turns the rake assembly until the next rake is in position. The implement works automatically and does not require monitoring by an operator to have straw bunches of a desired size be formed.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for producing stacks of large square bales. Bales are received from the baler via a bale accumulator and formed into a stack, a plurality of bales high. The resulting bale stacks may be dropped in the field for pickup later.

Abstract: A hay bale feeder is described. Embodiments of the hay bale feeder include a frame, one or more bale support members, and a pair of spaced apart drum assemblies. The hay bale feeder can be implemented to shred a square hay bale. The hay bale feeder can typically be attached to a tractor or other vehicle. The pair of spaced apart drum assemblies can include a pair of drums having protrusions that are adapted to shred a square hay bale as the square hay bale is gravity fed to the pair of drum assemblies.

Abstract: A threshing system including a rotor cage with a plurality of slots therein, a first bank of vanes and a second bank of vanes arranged within the cage. An adjustable vane control system is coupled to the rotor cage and the banks of vanes. a first and second member are respectively pivotally coupled the vanes in the first bank and the vanes of the second bank through corresponding slots. Linkages couple an arm to the members. The first and second members each having a range of travel defined by the slots. The members each having a surface facing the outer surface of the rotor cage, the surfaces of the first member and the second member each remain tangent to the outer surface of the rotor cage as the first member and the second member are moved within their range of travel.

Abstract: An adjustable vane system for use with a rotor cage of a threshing system of an agricultural harvester. The vane system includes a vane having a generally helically curved inner profile; a surface being an outer profile that is opposite the inner profile and is generally helically curved over a portion of the vane; a first flat portion proximate an end of the vane on the outer profile; and a second flat portion proximate to another end of the vane on the outer profile.

Abstract: A combine harvester including a grain pan arranged to catch a crop stream from threshing or separating apparatus. The grain pan is driven in an oscillating manner to convey the crop stream rearwardly to a rear edge. A cleaning unit including a fan for generating a cleaning airstream which is directed under the rear edge of the grain pan. The grain pan comprises includes a transversely corrugated surface and longitudinal gullies having a curved profile for compensating for side-hill operation.

Abstract: A seedling-cutting apparatus includes a pair of arms that is to nip a portion of a stem of a seedling for grafting and that can be opened and closed and a blade that is provided so as to be capable of reciprocating relative to the portion of the stem. At least one of the pair of arms includes a through hole or a cutout that penetrates a portion of the arms along a direction in which the blade reciprocates. At least a portion of the through hole or the cutout faces the portion of the stem and at least a portion of the blade moves through the through hole or the cutout.

Abstract: Disclosed is a blowing-suction device, comprising a housing; an air pipe extending along a longitudinal direction and connected to the housing; a motor located in the housing and providing rotational motion; and a fan rotationally generating an airflow; wherein when the fan operably rotates along a first direction, the blowing-suction device is in a blowing mode; and when the fan operably rotates along a second direction, the blowing-suction device is in a suction mode.

Abstract: A system, device and method for delivering CO2 or other gases to plants in fields, orchards, vineyards and the like. A stake with a windbreak structure and gaseous emitters on the upwind side creates a leeward wind eddy surrounding a plant, such as an orchards sapling. This establishes and maintains a gaseous microclimate beneficial to the plant. The device delivers CO2 gas to a plant in an agricultural field, orchard, grove, orchard of the like. The device includes an elongated base adapted to be adjustably placed on the ground a predetermined distance from the plant, upwind of the plant. A wind foil is adjustably connected to the base along its elongated length. The wind foil has a curvilinear geometry with a first face having a generally convex configuration, and a second face having a generally concave configuration. An emitter assembly is disposed on the second face of the wind foil. A gas supply conduit is communicatively connected to the emitter and adapted to be connected to a gas supply.

Abstract: A method and container for developing seedlings includes germinating the seeds and air pruning the seedlings to a depth of about 3 inches.

Abstract: Crop protection netting for covering trees or other plants for insect and bird exclusion is of a knitted mesh construction, comprising knit intersections in the netting and connecting yarn portions between the yarn intersections which extend substantially linearly between intersections. The netting is lightweight and stretchable in multiple directions.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for training a grape vine. The apparatus is a swing arm supporting a linear grid composed of transverse and longitudinal elements that are configured to result in a network of spaces that are sized to capture and separate the grape vine shoots. The apparatus is mobile within the vine canopy serving various functions as the growing season progresses. The mobility of the grid apparatus allows repositioning throughout the growing season while still retaining the shoots within the grid openings.

Abstract: A system for building a reconfigurable trellis includes at least one slidable pole connector configured to slide along a pole and at least one cable connector configured to connect at least one strand connector configured to connect a strand such as a rope or wire to a pole. The slidable pole connector includes a first portion configured to slide along a first pole and a second portion extending perpendicularly from the first portion and configured to receive an end of a second pole. The strand connector may be a rope connector including a cylindrical sleeve configured to slide along a pole and a pad eye configured to hold an end of a rope. The connectors may be used to secure a plurality of vertical poles, horizontal poles, and strands to one another in a variety of adjustable configurations.

Abstract: A system for building a reconfigurable trellis includes at least one slidable pole connector configured to slide along a pole. The slidable pole connector includes a first portion configured to slide along a first pole and a second portion extending perpendicularly from the first portion and configured to receive an end of a second pole. A tightening mechanism may be provided to secure the first portion against the first pole and to prevent further sliding of the first portion when the connector is in a desired position. Several slidable pole connectors may be used with one another and with cable connectors to secure a plurality of vertical poles, horizontal poles, and ropes or wires to one another in a variety of adjustable configurations.

Abstract: A drip emitter is provided for delivering irrigation water from a supply tube to an emitter outlet at a reduced and relatively constant flow rate. Water enters the emitter through a first inlet and proceeds into a first chamber. When the water pressure is above a predetermined level, a one-directional valve opens to allow fluid flow past the first chamber, through a tortuous path flow channel, and through an emitter outlet. A second inlet is used to compensate for water pressure fluctuations in the supply tube to maintain output flow at a relatively constant rate. Water enters the second inlet and presses a flexible diaphragm toward a water metering surface to provide pressure-dependent control of the output flow. A copper member is mounted to the emitter over the emitter outlet to prevent plant root intrusion into the emitter outlet.

Abstract: A method of estimating a water property value for plants using aerial thermal images is provided. The thermal image values and at least one weather parameter are used to calculate a water stress value. The water property value is estimated using the water stress value and a predetermined correlation between the water stress value and the water property value.

Abstract: A water distribution station includes: a water inlet; and at least one hose connection, wherein each hose connection is configured to be connected to a hose to conduct water from the water distribution station to at least one location for providing water. The water distribution station is configured to be assembled in modular form from a plurality of water distribution modules, each water distribution module having: at least one water inlet and a hose connection, provided with a controllable valve, for connection to a hose. A supply container is connectable to each water distribution module for receiving nutrients which can be metered from the supply container to the hose connection of the respective water distribution module.

Abstract: A collapsible pet carrier is provided and includes: an interior space defined between opposing side walls, opposing end walls, and a bottom wall; one or more straps attached to one of the opposing side walls and opposing end walls; a cover movably attached over a top opening of the collapsible carrier; a pair of opposing pockets located on an exterior portion of the bottom wall, the pair of opposing pockets separated by a slit; a board shaped to fit at least partially within the paid of opposing pockets and across the slit; and a closure mechanism formed along an edge of the exterior portion of the bottom wall. In an expanded configuration the board is located within both of opposing pockets. In a collapsed configuration the opposing side walls, opposing end walls, straps, and cover are folded towards the bottom wall.

Abstract: A pet food bowl has three bowls, a first bowl for holding drinking water, a second bowl for holding water and providing a moat, and third bowl to be placed in the second bowl for holding the pet food. The water from the drinking bowl passes through a conduit to the second bowl, maintaining the water level in the second bowl. The third bowl may be removable to allow for easy cleaning of the second and third bowls.

Abstract: A feeding system to feed non-human animals includes a first autonomous mobile device and a second autonomous mobile device. The first autonomous mobile device includes a feed holder to receive feed, a feed mixer to mix the received feed, and a feed dispenser configured to dispense feed to the second autonomous mobile device. The second autonomous mobile device includes a feed holder to receive feed from the first autonomous mobile device.

Abstract: A veterinary Elizabethan Collar is provided that when unconstructed resembles a semi-circular shape. When the collar is constructed, it is in the shape of a truncated cone. The collar includes receivers on one side and tab mechanisms on the other side such that when the receivers are placed over receiving mechanisms to form a collar of a desired size, the receiver members can be selectively engaged with the tab mechanisms. The collar may also include collar stays that can be selectively attached to an animal's existing collar to help keep the Elizabethan collar in place.

Abstract: Animal handling assistance system and methods are disclosed, including an animal handling assistance apparatus, comprising: a body panel; first, second, third, and fourth appendage pouches extending from side portions of the body panel receivable of appendages of an animal. The first, second, third, and fourth appendage pouches each have a proximal portion and a distal portion, with an opening on the proximal portion and on the same side as the inside surface of the body panel, with at least one pouch fastener on the distal portion attachable to the outside surface of the body panel such that at least one of first, second, third, and fourth appendage of the animal is restrainable against the body of the animal.

Abstract: A multifunctional dog chain includes at least two ropes, a handle ring and hooks. Rear ends of the at least two ropes are interconnected to form a first connecting portion, the handle ring is in 360° rotary connection with the first connecting portion, front ends of the ropes are separated, the hooks used for connecting with dog collars are arranged on each of said ropes, an adjustable rope clamp is arranged between the ropes and connected to the ropes to separate the ropes into a front part and a rear part, the ropes between the first connecting portion and the adjustable rope clamp form the closed rear part, each of the ropes in the front part is of a separated structure, and the adjustable rope clamp can move back and forth along said ropes. The multifunctional dog chain can prevent accidents out of too long ropes.

Abstract: A method, device and system are provided for remotely monitoring one or more parameters associated with a grazing animal. The method comprises the steps of: mounting a collar comprising sensor onto a grazing animal; detecting by said sensor movements of the grazing animal or lack thereof; classifying the detected movements into a group of pre-defined activity classes; and based detected movements and their classification into at least one of the pre-defined activity classes, determining at least one of the parameters being monitored.

Abstract: A shipping container that includes a greenhouse mounted above an aqueous tank or tanks. Aquaponics fruits and vegetables grow in greenhouse in vertical and horizontal grow systems, while fish are grown in the tanks. Water flows between all plants and fish with no soil. The system is run by a computer automation system which operates on data obtained by various sensors and control components that include automated control valves, fish feeders, temperature and water flow measurements. The container can be operated from an established grid or can run off-grid with solar or other renewable energy sources. Part of the water needed for the system can be collected from rainfall. All necessary components except for the water, fish and plant seedlings are delivered in the shipping container.

Abstract: A method and lighting system for promoting survival of larvae from a plurality of eggs within a containment unit. The lighting system includes at least one lighting device emitting light energy in a pre-determined narrow range of wavelengths and a pre-determined lighting intensity that promotes the survival of the larvae within the containment unit.

Abstract: A transgenic animal model that is suitable for the cell or tissue specific assessing of thyroid hormone (TH) action in vivo is described. The recombinant DNA construct and methods suitable to generate such an animal are also provided. The assessment of TH action is based on a reporter that is dependent on an endogenously expressed thyroid hormone receptor (TR) and coregulators of said receptor.

Abstract: The present invention in general relates to the field of biological crop protection by use of phytoseiid predatory mites. More particularly the present invention relates to a system for releasing a phytoseiid predatory mite in a crop and novel uses of host mites in such phytoseiid predatory mite releasing system. The phytoseiid predatory mite releasing system according to the invention and the uses according to the invention are characterised by the selection a host mite species having an intrinsic growth rate (rm) of <0.28.

Abstract: Variable-scale, modular, easily manufacturable, energy efficient, reliable, and computer operated Insect Production Superstructure Systems (IPSS) may be used to produce insects for human and animal consumption, and for the extraction and use of lipids for applications involving medicine, nanotechnology, consumer products, and chemical production with minimal water, feedstock, and environmental impact. An IPSS may comprise modules including feedstock mixing, enhanced feedstock splitting, insect feeding, insect breeding, insect collection, insect grinding, pathogen removal, multifunctional flour mixing, liquid mixing, shaping, cooking, flavoring, biocatalyst mixing, exoskeleton separation, liquid separation, and lipid extraction. An IPSS may be configured to be constructed out of a plurality of containerized modules.

Abstract: A fish pumping system for moving upload water and fish includes a buffer pipe section having an upstream end and a downstream end. An inlet valve assembly is at the upstream end and provides fluid communication between the buffer pipe and an upstream fish origin. An outlet valve assembly is at the downstream end 5 and provides fluid communication between the buffer pipe and a fish destination. An inlet branch pipe is in fluid communication with the upstream end and an outlet branch pipe is in fluid communication with the downstream end. A production water piping circuit is in communication with the inlet branch pipe and the outlet branch pipe and forms a loop with the buffer pipe section. The 10 production water circuit pumps production water into the buffer pipe section through the inlet branch pipe and out from the buffer pipe section through the outlet branch pipe.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for fishing is provided in the form of a hook is herein disclosed with multiple hook points, an adjustable tension arm, optional snag guard and auxiliary bait retainer.

Abstract: A pop gear or gang troll includes a wire leader and a plurality of spinner blades. The spinner blades may include a polycarbonate body or a body of some other material, a fragmented reflective material disposed on the polycarbonate body so as to reflect incident light in varying directions depending on the relative location of the incident light, and a luminescent material. The spinner blades may have a shape such as generally fish shaped, ovoid, round, or spoon shaped. A lure includes a polycarbonate body (or a body formed from some other material), a fragmented reflective material disposed on the polycarbonate body so as to reflect incident light in varying directions depending on the relative location of the incident light, a luminescent material, and a hook attached to the body. The body of the lure may have a shape designed to lure fish and/or to cause a desired motion to the lure (e.g., vibration).

Abstract: A rattling fishing jig includes a body including an outer envelope. A fishing line eyelet is disposed on an upper portion of the body. At least one noise-making capsule is disposed in the body. A hook shank includes a first hook. The hook shank is connected to the body. The hook shank is in direct contact with the noise-making capsule. A stinger attachment eyelet is disposed on a bottom portion of the body. A continuous wire is disposed in the body. A first end of the continuous wire is connected to the stinger attachment eyelet. A second end of the continuous wire opposite the first end is connected to the fishing line eyelet.

Abstract: A fishing lure for simulating the motion of dying bait is described. In one embodiment, the fishing lure includes a lure body having a longitudinal line and a nose at a first distal end having a line tie with an anchor secured to the nose of the lure body. The line tie further includes a leg which extends forward and downward from the anchor and at the end of the leg opposite from the anchor an eyelet is provided for connection to a fishing line.

Abstract: A flexible fishing lure is provided that includes a outer shape having a transverse opening for receiving a plurality of alternatively formed lure fin members allowing a user to change the action of a lure by fin selection without replacing the lure. Multiple internal channels within the lure are adaptively provided for receiving a variety of scent sticks, sound generators, light generators, flavor generating means. Flow internal channels extend from a front opening to gill openings allowing a water flow along an inserted scent or flavor stick member to pass through the lure body and exit proximate fin, nair, belly, or other locations simulating an injured or wounded fish leaking bodily fluids or blood. Other features to simulate wounded features. Replacement fins and weighting constructions allow a user to tailor a weight and action enabling a circling or injured motion during retrieval.

Abstract: An outrigger tip attachable to an outrigger pole comprises a translucent elongate main body including a proximal end portion having an opening for accessing an inner cavity, and the proximal end portion of the translucent elongate main body being sized and configured for engaging an open end of the outrigger pole. A light emitting diode assembly is sized and configured for engaging the inner cavity through the opening on the proximal end portion of the translucent elongate main body. The light emitting diode assembly comprises one or more light emitting diodes, an input device for sending signals to control the light emitting diodes, a controller in connection with the light emitting diodes, and the controller being structured and disposed for receiving signals from the input device and delivering an output signal to the light emitting diodes, and a battery connecting member structured and disposed for connecting to a power source.

Abstract: A heated fishing rod that has a heating element disposed on the inside and outside of the rod that concentrates heating at the eyelets and at the distal end of the fishing rod.

Abstract: A fly fishing holder consists of a central cord (s) upon which is threaded at least one rubber cylindrical hook end holder. A protective hard plastic sheath is threaded inside the rubber cylinder to prevent the hook end of the fly from penetrating the soft (nylon) cord. Plastic platforms can be threaded onto the central cord to provide clips for attaching tools thereto. Various embodiments add a spool shaft, multiple rubber cylinders and spacer washers. The holder allows the fly fisherman to quickly ditch the flies that just aren't working. It provides quick access at your chest to everything the fly fisherman needs like snips, tippet spool, and several flies that cannot fall off as happens with a fly patch.